Zilu asked about governance. The Master said, “Lead by example, and then ask the people to work hard.”
Zilu asked for more guidance. The Master said, “Never grow weary.”
Note
This exchange from the Analects distills Confucian leadership into two essential principles: moral exemplarity and unwavering perseverance.
“Lead by example” means that a ruler must embody the virtues and efforts he expects from others – working first, enduring hardship alongside the people, and setting a standard through action, not just words. Only after demonstrating commitment can one justly ask others to labor. This reflects the Confucian belief that authority derives from virtue, not position. The follow-up instruction – “never grow weary” – emphasizes that ethical leadership is not a momentary performance but a lifelong discipline. Governance demands constant vigilance, energy, and dedication; complacency or burnout undermines moral influence.
Together, these directives affirm that effective rule begins with the self: the leader’s character, consistency, and stamina shape the moral climate of the entire community. It is a call to service, not control – to inspire through integrity and endurance.
Further Reading
Ji Kangzi asked Confucius about governance. Confucius replied, “Governance means uprightness. If you lead with uprightness, who would dare not be upright?” Analects 12.17 (Yan Yuan)
Both stress that leadership must begin with the ruler’s own moral conduct as the foundation of public order.
Zhonggong, serving as steward to the Ji family, asked about governance. The Master said, “Set an example for your officials, pardon minor faults, and promote the worthy.” Analects 13.2 (Zi Lu)
Reinforces “lead first” (xian you si)—rulers must model the behavior they expect from subordinates.
子路問政。子曰：「先之，勞之。」請益。曰：「無倦。」
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